EDISON, NJ — The Indo-American Council of Seniors of Edison, NJ, in joint partnership with World Vegan Vision, hosted a landmark Vegan Diwali Celebration, uniting community members, civic leaders, and cultural performers to celebrate the Festival of Lights through the lens of compassion, heritage, and unity.
Master of Ceremonies Abha Devrajan opened the festivities, setting a warm tone for an inspiring lineup of guest speakers. Mukundbhai Parikh, President of the Indo-American Council of Seniors, delivered the opening remarks, which were followed by a special video message from legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan and inspiring addresses by World Vegan Vision founders H.K. Shah and Malti Shah. Additional remarks highlighting the council’s mission were shared by Chairman Vishnubhai Patel (accompanied by Sharda Patel), Vice Chairman Mukund Thakkar (accompanied by Rama Thakkar), and Executive Vice President Virajibhai Patel.
The traditional Deep Prajwalan (sacred lamp lighting) brought together esteemed dignitaries, including:
- Sam Joshi, Mayor of Edison
- Mahesh Yadav Ji, Consul, Consulate General of India, New York
- Padmashree Dr. Sudhir Parekh
- Kenny Desai
- Geeta Fofandi (Faith Home Care)
- Community leaders: Atul & Lata Shah, Nayna Shah, Bhavna Patel, Jatinder Bakshi, Hemant Patel, Oam Prakash, Sujit Singh, Archana Ji, Suresh Patel, Vishnu Patel, and Rajan Ghayal. Bipin Parekh, KiranMehta . Bhagvad patel,
The gathering also honored past organizational leadership, trustees, permanent donors, political representatives, former Mayor Dalpat Patel, and leaders of prominent partner associations, including FISANA, Gujarati Samaj of New Jersey, Gandhi Samaj of South Gujarat, AIA NJ Chapter, ICA Central Jersey, Indo-American Cultural Association, the Indian Business Association (IBA), the Hindu Women’s Wing, and local senior organizations.
In a poignant segment, the late Natu Patel was posthumously honored with a Lifetime Recognition Award for over four decades of dedicated service championing Indian arts and cultural harmony in New Jersey. Mrs. Mina Patel accepted the award presented by H.K. Shah, Consul Mahesh Yadav Ji, and President Mukundbhai Parikh.
The evening featured high-energy cultural programming:
- A breathtaking dance routine by the Sonalee Vyas Dance Company.
- An overwhelming musical performance and passionate keynote address by international recording artist Sparsh Shah, who encouraged attendees to embrace cruelty-free, vegan celebration choices.
- Melodious duet and solo vocal renditions by Shila and Sankit.
Aligning with the event’s environmental and compassionate ethos, guests enjoyed a delicious 100% plant-based Diwali feast catered by Khushbu Restaurant (Naresh Kapadia), served entirely on eco-friendly, biodegradable tableware.
The seamless execution and overall coordination of the grand event were managed by Nitin Vyas.
Media Contact:
World Vegan Vision & Indo-American Council of Seniors
Edison, New Jersey
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Compassion Meets Tradition: Indo-American Council of Seniors & World Vegan Vision Host Grand Vegan Diwali in Edison
EDISON, NJ — Tradition, sustainability, and community spirit converged as the Indo-American Council of Seniors of Edison, NJ, and World Vegan Vision co-hosted their annual Vegan Diwali Celebration. MC Abha Devrajan guided guests through an unforgettable evening filled with auspicious rituals, distinguished honors, and eco-conscious dining.
Key addresses were delivered by Council President Mukundbhai Parikh, World Vegan Vision founders H.K. Shah and Malti Shah, Chairman Vishnubhai Patel, Vice Chairman Mukund Thakkar, and Executive Vice President Virajibhai Patel, featuring a surprise video message from iconic star Amitabh Bachchan.
The ceremonial lamp lighting (Deep Prajwalan) featured prominent civic and diaspora leaders, including Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, Indian Consul Mahesh Yadav Ji, Padmashree Dr. Sudhir Parekh, Kenny Desai, Geeta Fofandi, former Mayor Dalpat Patel, and leadership across regional organizations such as FISANA, IBA, AIA NJ, and Gujarati Samaj.
A central highlight was a moving posthumous tribute to community pillar Natu Patel for his 40-year legacy in advancing Indian heritage. His wife, Mrs. Mina Patel, accepted the award alongside leadership.
Guests were treated to dynamic performances by the Sonalee Vyas Dance Company, vocalists Shila and Sankit, and a headline performance and inspiring vegan advocacy address by Sparsh Shah. The celebration concluded with an authentic vegan dinner provided by Khushbu Restaurant on 100% biodegradable dinnerware.
The successful program was coordinated by Nitin Vyas.
